Development communications

Communication technologies are regarded as powerful tools for development, with potential for reducing rural isolation, increasing the productivity and effectiveness of economic ans social development programs, strengthening key private and public sector institutions, and advancing the human right of people to have the information they need to make informed personal choices. USAID"s priority will be development communications, defined as the application of existing communications technologies and media to problems of development. Assistance will be given to communications components related to sector strategies and project purposes. USAID does not expect to support communications as a distinct program sector. The primary purpose of the communication activity should be developmental, and activities are expected to be consistent with USAID"s aim of increasing decentralization and community participation in development decisions. Direct investments in infrastructure development will be limited. Rather, the focus will be on technical assistance designed to ensure that infrastructure projects are effectively implemented and utilized. Finally, assistance will be primarily on a bilateral project basis. (POPLINE abstract)